MISTAKE

An electronic sign meant to welcome tourists to Miami Beach briefly offered visitors a confusing message when it malfunctioned. The flashing, portable sign along a causeway read, ”Welcome visitors! Prohibited.” It was actually supposed to flash a message reading “Welcome visitors! Prohibited on the beach: glass, metal, alcohol, and Styrofoam.” Once the malfunction was discovered, the sign was removed. A spokeswoman said Miami Beach always welcomes visitors and apologized for the unintentional message.—Jim L. Wilson & Jim Sandell